The labor union representing 4,400 WestJet flight attendants has given a 72-hour strike notice, potentially leading to a strike amid the busy summer travel season. The Canadian Union of Public Employees stated that significant disagreements still exist between the two parties.
Alia Hussain, chair of the union’s WestJet division, emphasized the need for changes and fair negotiations in a recent press release. Despite the strike notice, Hussain expressed hope for a resolution and mentioned ongoing efforts to avoid a strike through continuous bargaining.
Responding to the union’s strike notice, WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice, stating that negotiations are ongoing to secure a deal. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech regretted the inconvenience caused to guests and emphasized the airline’s commitment to minimizing disruptions to their operations.
If an agreement is not reached, potential job action could commence at 12:01 a.m. MT on Sunday. WestJet has offered flexibility to passengers affected by the possible strike, allowing changes or cancellations to flights scheduled between July 30 and August 4 without fees.
Additionally, a contingency plan has been established between the two parties to manage aircraft grounding and ensure the safe return of cabin crew in case of a work stoppage. The union has highlighted concerns regarding unpaid ground duties, while WestJet maintains that all tasks are compensated through a credit hour system rather than hourly wages.
Industry experts warn that even a brief shutdown during the peak summer travel period could result in substantial financial losses for the airline. WestJet, which operates over 600 daily flights, is bracing for potential disruptions that could impact tens of thousands of passengers daily.